Schnabel is currently a professor at PSU and has engaged with various initiatives at the university for over a decade, including the creation of the Shattuck Hall Ecological Learning Plaza at the school. The experimental space is used to prototype material explorations and other design-build projects, according to a press release from the university.

Schnabel is also a major force behind the Portland Winter Light Festival that brings nighttime installations to the city's urban core. In addition, Schnabel is a member of the Willamette Light Brigade, a group that works to bring improved lighting to Portland's bridges and other public spaces.

Schnabel takes over for current dean, Clive Knights, who has led the school for 12 years. Under Knights's tenure, PSU established and accredited a professional Master of Architecture program and began offering first graduate certificate in Public Interest Design in the United States.

Regarding his predecessor's legacy, Schnabel said, “Clive Knights led the transformation of a modest program into a fully accredited school populated with a diverse faculty who bring their national and international reputations in service to our wonderful students.”

Schnabel added, “I look forward to building on this momentum in support of our students, and furthering our engagement with Portland’s design and creative communities.”